Q&A: Your Immigration Questions Answered

“Are there any updates on how long it’s taking for our K‑1 case file to reach the U.S. Embassy in Manila after NVC got it in February? How long until we can schedule the interview?”
Most Manila transfers are taking about four months from USCIS approval to the embassy’s physical file delivery. Once the case lands, interview slots typically open within a few additional months, though availability varies by the embassy’s calendar.

“Should we file a K‑3 for my spouse even though everyone says it’s uncommon? Is it worth doing after the I‑130 is already in?”
Megan called today’s K‑3 “more archaeological than practical.” I‑130 approvals are arriving faster than K‑3s, so the K‑3 almost always loses the “horse race.” Unless you truly want a backup path (and are fine with extra fees and steps if it wins), the filing rarely adds value.

“Then why doesn’t USCIS just take the K‑3 off the books?”
Immigration hopes the tool might work again if backlogs ever shrink—but for now it stays on the shelf.

“What services and fee structures does your firm offer?”
Pricing depends on case type, history, and complexity. Many marriage‑based matters qualify for flat‑fee packages with interest‑free payment plans; highly complex or waiver‑heavy cases are billed hourly after a strategy call.

“Our Philippines K‑1 petition is approved. Do we need to request an extension because of the four‑month validity?”
Yes. Ask USCIS (or the embassy once transferred) for written extensions whenever the petition nears expiration. Keep proof—rules change quickly and officers still expect evidence you acted.

“If biometrics are done for an I‑601 waiver, am I already covered under the new Alien Registration requirement?”
Not necessarily. Only certain groups (e.g., recent visa entrants, I‑94 holders, pending AOS applicants) are deemed ‘registered.’ Anyone else—especially those who entered without inspection—must evaluate and, if required, complete Form AR‑11 registration to avoid fines or removal risk. Talk to counsel to confirm your category.

“A prior spouse withdrew my I‑130 and later filed VAWA. How will that affect a future marriage‑based filing?”
It’s a major red flag. USCIS will scrutinize multiple petitions plus the abuse allegation. A tailored legal strategy (and strong evidence of bona fide marriage) is essential before refiling.

“My U.S.‑citizen son and I are in Pakistan. Should I file the I‑130 for my husband online from abroad or return to the U.S. first?”
You can file from abroad, but you must still prove U.S. domicile—tax returns, a U.S. address, driver’s license, job ties, etc. A lawyer can map out the best timing and evidence.

“Any update on the pre‑screening appointment requirement at the U.S. Embassy in Ghana? We’ve waited three months.”
Ghana remains one of the slowest posts. Fiancé and spousal interviews often take many months to appear; keep checking the portal, and be ready for shifting document rules.

“I have a 10‑year green card, filed 2022–23 taxes late, and never registered for Selective Service. Can I still naturalize?”
Possibly. If you’re still under 26, register now; if older, prepare a written explanation and show full tax compliance and good‑moral‑character evidence for the past five years.

“What financial documents do we need for the fiancé‑visa affidavit of support? Are bank statements required?”
Primary proof is income: recent tax returns, W‑2s/1099s, pay stubs, and employer letters. Bank or asset statements (12‑month average balances) are only needed if income falls below the poverty guidelines or to prove U.S. domicile at certain posts.

“My wife filed the I‑751 two months ago; her green card is expired and we never got an extension letter. What now?”
Check both receipt notices—the thicker I‑751 notice usually doubles as a 48‑month extension. If it’s missing, call USCIS and ask for a replacement ASAP.

“Should we add a narrative cover letter telling our love story with our I‑130 packet?”
Personal letters carry little weight and can backfire if any dates differ from future testimony. Stronger evidence: trip photos, joint finances, communication logs, etc. Save narratives for affidavits when strategically necessary.

“Our I‑130 was approved at the end of March. How long until the NVC welcome letter arrives?”
Current average is about 60 days to the welcome letter and roughly four months total to the embassy transfer, though it can vary.

“We adopted our daughter and need to change her last name on her EAD/green card. How do we tackle that?”
First obtain a formal court name‑change order (often bundled with the adoption). Then file with USCIS to update her documents—or, if timing allows, change it free during her future naturalization ceremony.

“Our marriage‑based green card interview is set for May 16. Any tips?”
Bring every required original plus updated relationship/financial evidence. Review your full timeline together—first date, engagement, wedding, daily routines, favorite meals, etc.—so both spouses answer consistently. A practice “date‑night” quiz helps calm nerves and avoid discrepancies.

Join Us for Weekly Live Immigration Chats

Have more questions about the U.S. immigration process for couples? Join Attorney Megan Pastrana and the team every Tuesday at 11 AM EST for our Weekly Live Immigration Attorney Chats. You can ask your questions live on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and get personalized guidance for your case.

If you have any questions or concerns, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way, helping you navigate the complexities of the immigration journey with confidence. If you find yourself overwhelmed or uncertain about the next steps, reach out for personalized advice tailored to your unique situation. And don’t hesitate to visit our resource center for more detailed guides to use on your journey through this process.